Posts categorized "Mixed Media"

October 07, 2015

The Butterflies image is a transfer. I then applied plaster to the page and stamped flowers into the wet substrate. When the plaster dried, I added the blue paint and trim. I may accent the flowers with white acrylic paint.

August 06, 2015

I signed up for a one month subscription to Art Snacks. According to their site, "a curated box of unique high-quality art supplies are delivered to your door every month." A one month subscription is $20.00.

Here's what I received:

Denik Mini Sketch Book

ZIG Cartoonist Brush, Pen No. 22

Daler-Rowney FW Acrylic Paint

Simply Simmons Paint Brush

The supplies are interesting, and good quality, but I'm not too sure about the color of the Moon Violet acrylic paint. I'll test it out and then decide.

Each month, the items that you receive are always a surprise. You may want to check out their site for more details.

August 05, 2015

Today I did some alcohol ink experiments on Yupo paper. I used the blowing through a straw technique on the top image. In the middle image, I splattered with a tooth brush. For the bottom image, I worked with an old credit card.

Later, I plan to create some flowers out of the straw technique image. I will probably use the bottom two images for background art.

July 31, 2015

For the first time, I experimented with Plaster Impregnated Gauze Wrap to make a botanical-style casting. I couldn't find any Queen Anne's Lace near my home so I worked with some simple weeds.

To make the mold strong, I formed three layers of wet bandages. And then pressed the weeds into the wet layers. I let the mold set for about 10 - 15 minutes and then removed the weeds. I had to use tweezers to remove the tiny fragments. I let the mold dry overnight.

I painted the dry mold with acrylic paint and highlighted the indentations. After it dried, I applied varnish to protect and strengthen the mold.

June 16, 2015

This is the first time that I used a Chartpak Blender Marker to create a transfer. Although this is a quick transfer method, the image is not as dark and crisp as the matte medium transfers that I do.

I placed the reversed, laser image face down on the acrylic-painted paper. I then coated the back of the image with the marker - both with vertical and horizontal strokes. Last, I burnished the image with a spoon and lifted off the paper.

As you can see, my original laser image was quite dark. This image is a few weeks old and that may have affected the final results. Overall, I like the ease of use and so I will experiment with the marker again.

I've heard that Xylene can also be used to transfer images. But the smallest containers that I've seen are gallon size. And Xylene is quite toxic.

May 06, 2015

Have you ever been attracted to the designs or typography on paper shopping bags?

When Ron came home with a purchase from DSW Shoes, I was immediately attracted to the shopping bag he carried. The bag was covered with bold black & brown stripes. You can see a small swatch of the bag on the right.

I covered a small art journal page with the striped paper and added some blue acrylic paint. Next, I stamped butterfly images on tissue paper and glued it to the page. I included ribbon since the May 2 Art Challenge for the Documented Life Project is Fabric.

More paper bag ideas: Recently, I shopped at Whole Foods and my groceries were packed in this shopping bag. Don't you just love the typography? I can envision using this phrase in my art journal and inserting an appropriate word, e.g. Feed Your Artistic Goals. Or maybe, Feed Your Creative Goals.

May 04, 2015

I needed an image printed on a transparent substrate for a mixed media art project. I tried the tissue paper technique in the printer which did not work.

Next, I attempted to print blue and brown images on deli paper but the colors were not vibrant. I did achieve a bright blue image when I printed on matte photo paper. But the latter substrate would not have made a good fit for my project.

Finally, I changed the image to a pink color and I achieved a brighter result. I was amazed at the effect that the deli paper had on the different colors that I experimented with. I also noticed that printing on the dull side of the deli paper produced better color.

March 09, 2015

The warm weather is finally coming! Here in North Carolina it's now 66 degrees outside with a high of 69 degrees expected today. And even warmer weather is predicted for this week. YAY!

To create this mixed-media piece, I cut out heart shapes from bleeding tissue paper. First, I wet the Bristol Board paper and then laid down the hearts. I added more water and a sprinkling of Kosher salt. After it dried, I removed the hearts/salt. I was surprised at the resulting subdued colors. Only the orange tissue looked vibrant.

To deepen the hues, I added some Gouache paint. I so like the texture created by the salt.

November 21, 2014

On Pinterest, I spotted a technique on how to print on masking tape. The pinner printed words on a sheet of paper and then put masking tape on top of the words and ran it through the printer again.

I tried the idea but printed words on an inkjet transparency sheet instead. Then I put the tape over the words and printed it again, using my rear tray loader. I was a little concerned at what the tape might do to my printer but the sheet easily slid through.

The printed masking tape easily lifts off the transparency sheet. I plan to use the tape in my art journal, on paintings, cards or tags.

November 20, 2014

In the past, I've worked with watercolor and acrylic paints, But I have never experimented with gouache. Recently, I purchased a set of Pelikan Gouache paints from Dick Blick

I stamped the above design on heavy paper - and then splattered a variety of gouache colors all over the page. However, the page needed a shot of color so I added some ink spray. I like the rich colors.

"Lie down and close your eyes. Visualize your body as you breathe in and out. Try to imagine your breath as a particular color as it enters your body, another color as it exits. What do you see? Draw an outline of a body on a large sheet of paper, and inside, create a watercolor based on your bodily state."

Produce a Permission Slip:

"Think of the societal and self-imposed pressures you feel on a day-to-day basis, the personal traits you see as faults, the natural slips you see as errors. Choose one of these things and give yourself, in ornamental detail, permission to do just that."

Craft a Mark-Making Tool Unique To You:

"Instead of spending the majority of your time on an actual painting, why not focus a little of that attention on crafting an alternative paintbrush all your own? You can make a mark-making tool out of nearly anything, whether it's a row of toothpicks (glued to a cardboard base) and dipped in paint, or a DIY paintbrush made from pom-poms and yarn."

November 10, 2014

I'm working on a sculptural butterfly art piece. I wanted the top butterfly to have a dimentional, glossy appearance so I applied a thick coat of DecoArt Media Liquid Glass to the paper. The medium dries crystal-clear and remains flexible which suited my purposes.

On another note: I updated my Etsy Shop to include twelve Art Wood Blocks (ACEO size) of my original designs. If you would like to purchase one of my other art works on a wood block, please let me know.

November 02, 2014

It's always scarey trying out a new transfer technique or medium. Will it work or won't it? Well, today I experimented with the new DecoArt Media Matte Medium to make two transfers.

First, I painted my muslin pieces with gesso and let them dry. I watched mixed media artist Andy Skinner's Matte Medium video and learned of two ideas that I hadn't tried before:

First, I covered my substrates and images with matte medium and let them dry. Then, I coated all of the pieces with medium again - and pressed the images face down onto the substrates. I used both an old credit card and a brayer to achieve optimum adhesion.

When the images were dry, I used a sponge (see below) and water to remove the excess paper.

As you can see, the images that I transferred with the matte medium were successful. I really do like this product. I also believe that the initial coating of matte medium to the substrate/image - and the use of the sponge also contributed to the success of the transfers.

October 15, 2014

When I took the Fabric Collage Workshop, with Kate Thompson, at Art & Soul, she demonstrated image transfers using Liquitex Matte Medium. I was amazed at the fantastic results that I achieved with the Liquitex.

In the past, I always used Golden Soft Gel Matte Medium when I did transfers but I was not always pleased with the results.

Today, I did the above transfer using Liquitex and again the results were perfect. Another factor that may have contributed to my success was observing Kate's transfer techniques. That's just one more good reason to take classes.

October 11, 2014

DecoArt has recently introduced an innovative line of mixed media art products.

Today, I experimented with their Media Misters. The Misters are unique because they are permanent pigments.

When I used to work on projects using the ink sprays now on the market, I became frustrated whenever I added layers. The latter products caused the sprays to bleed because they weren't permanent and ruined the effect that I was striving for.

However, the misters can easily be layered for multidimensional effects. I'm sure that this new product will offer artists more versatility. The colors are intense and the shimmer mists actually glow. The above photograph doesn't adequately portray the richness of the colors.

I used the following Misters on my papered and gessoed substrate:

DecoArt Media Primary Cyan

DecoArt Media Primary Magenta

DecoArt Shimmer Mist Yellow

First, I sprayed the Misters on the substrate - and then spritzed water on them to achieve a transparent effect. Next, I sprayed the Misters on full strength and turned the substrate around to allow the colors to flow.

I dabbed on some circles with a stencil and pigment inks. I glued on scraps of script paper as embellishments. I then stamped on the butterfly, circle image and words. I highlighted the circle with some graphite pencil. Last, I accented the edges of the art piece with Gilder Paste in Inca Gold.

This is the first time that I worked with the Misters. I'm sure that I'll come up with some more ideas while I continue to play with them. Why not try them out?

For an informative video on how to use the Misters and keep the nozzles clean, check out the short video, Learn About Media Misters by Andy Skinner, . You can find it on the DecoArt Media Complete Mixed Media Program site. Scroll down the site for the Misters video.

"The beauty of glazing is that you can alter hues in very subtle ways. You can increase the drama of a gradation of colour, and best of all, you can create a lovely brightness that's difficult to achieve without glazing."

"The wonderful thing about using this process with acrylics, and acrylic mediums, is that you can re-apply another glaze (depending on the weather) in about 20 minutes. No more waiting for weeks. First glaze not quite right? No worries. Add a second layer after 20 minutes have past."

Read the complete post for more glazing tips. Then take some time to poke around the site for more valuable information on acrylic painting.

August 05, 2014

In preparation for a mixed-media art project, I printed some images on Deli Paper. I really like how they turned out especially the colored images.

Here's what I did:

Trimmed the deli paper to standard 8 1/2" x 11" size.

Fed the sheets, one at a time, into the rear feeder of my printer.

Printed images on the dull side of the deli paper. Next time, I may try printing on the shiny side of the paper.

Let ink dry thoroughly before handling printed images.

Sprayed dried images with an acrylic spray to protect them.

I plan to incorporate the images into a mixed-media art work. If you want to transfer the images, do not use the acrylic spray. Here's an old post, from Cre8it, about transferring images using deli.paper. The process is explained by artist, D. J. Pettitt.

August 04, 2014

We've had three days of heavy rain this past weekend which wrecked havoc with my migraines. But I'm back on board now.

Lately, I have been preoccupied with painting circles. I created these circles on a page from a vintage typography book that I picked up at a Library sale. I titled the piece Part Three as that is also the title of the vintage page.

Tiffanie provides wonderful, detailed instructions including how to prepare the paper mâché base- and petal templates. The Peony measures 24" across by 13" deep but you can easily go bigger or smaller just by enlarging or reducing your base and petal sizes.

According to Tiffanie, if you precut the petals, the peony can be completed in less than a day! What a great Summer time project.

June 26, 2014

The bookPaper to Petal (75 Whimsical Paper Flowers to Craft by Hand) is an encyclopedic treasure on how to make unique paper blossoms.

The authors invite readers to cultivate their creative side with these suggestions: When designing paper flowers, always begin with a nugget or spark of inspiration. They go on to say, “Find something that speaks to you, perhaps an object, place or experience and turn it into a component of your flower.”

The book is written by Rebecca Thuss & Patrick Farrell. Thuss is a natural authority on the topic. She spent ten years as a Style Director at Martha Stewart Weddings magazine.

In the Get Inspired section, readers are given expert guidance with topics on Color, Shape, Texture and Mood.

The Materials section, with its lush photographs, showcases many varieties of crepe paper (even vintage paper), paper ribbon, glassine paper, an assortment of tapes, adhesives and more. These photographs help you to visualize your future flowers.

Pictures in the Tool section help readers easily understand the paper making process. I was surprised to read that the use of rubber stamps can enhance paper blossoms. And that deckle edge scissors help create an organic-looking edge to the flowers.

The visual display continues in the Paints & Colorings segment. I knew about using watercolor and acrylic paints to enhance paper flowers. However, I did not know that water-soluble crayons and pencils; markers and glitter can also be effective aids.

I like that the authors offer a Skills section with photo demonstrations on: how to work with petal templates, cutting techniques, prepping petals and leaves - and stems and taping techniques.

Information on making basic centers and buds was very useful to me. To help readers personalize their flowers, various ways of adding color is also nicely photographed.

How to Projects in the book are rated by three skill levels which is handy for beginners. Some of the flowers include delightful charming Cheerleaders, Crumpled Poppies, Twisted Ribbon Tulips, Five-Petal Sweeties, fun Party Sticks, Peppered Peony, Coral-Colored Reef with Cotton Ball Centers and much, much more. There is a generous Resource List suggesting vendors for papers and other floral supplies.

To make it easy for readers, the templates are displayed in the order of the book projects. Best of all, you can download the templates on the Web. So you don’t have to bother with copying or tracing the pages. This is a reference source that you definitely do not want to cut up for the templates. Rather, the book is such a visual delight that you’ll want to display it on your coffee table.

Why not pick up the book, gather some supplies and invite your artist friends over for a relaxing afternoon of whimsical flower creation.

Note: For more information about the authors, check out their Web site, thussfarrell

June 21, 2014

I'm pretty rough on my paint brushes when I use them for mixed-media art, especially for scumbling work.

The above brushes were in very bad shape, encrusted with paint and stiff to the touch. First, I used the vinegar cleaning technique by soaking the brushes in hot vinegar. (After heating the vinegar, you need to let it cool a bit). The brushes were still very stiff.

Next, I put them in Murphy Oil Soap. I let them soak for a couple of days. To be honest, I forgot about the brushes and soaked them for three days. I then cleaned them with warm water. Success - The brushes are free of paint and soft. Now, I can continue to use them for mixed-media art work.

June 20, 2014

I continue to experiment with circles in my Art Journal. However, this time I painted directly on the moleskine page instead of on a collaged substrate, e.g., a vintage map.

If you have an ongoing urge to paint a specific symbol, subject matter or to work with certain paint colors, I believe you should follow it to see where it will lead you. Maybe you'll end up creating a new series of art work or explore a mixed-media technique that is new to you.

June 12, 2014

I continue to pin DIY and Art Projects yet it seems that I never have the time to make what I see on Pinterest. Do you do this too?

Well, today I saw a Shabby-Chic Style tin can on Pinterest that was either covered in fabric, decorative paper or a napkin. There were no instructions. The Pinner said, This looks easy to mod podge. So I decided to do it with the fabric that I had on hand.

I checked the Mod PodgeDecoupage Education Center. And I learned that it was easier to cut the fabric if you covered it with Mod Podge first and then let it dry. That idea did work. I then covered the can with Mod Podge.

To eliminate wrinkles, I found that it was important to smooth the fabric into the can ridges with a damp paper towel. I painted Mod Podge over the covered can. For a permanent finish, I will spray the dry can with a clear acrylic spray paint.

The project didn't take me long at all. So now I finally made something from my Pinterest Board - and I have a new container to store my paint brushes.

June 10, 2014

Today, I happened upon Linda Germain's blog, Printing Without a Press and discovered some cool printing tips. Although I have a Gelli Printing Plate, her tips apply to both those who make their own Gelatin Plates and those who use the commercial product.

Here are her suggestions for Types of Paper to Use for Printing:

Masa Paper

Sulphite Drawing Paper

Tissue Paper (I can't wait to try this paper out.)

Drawing Paper, 90 lb.

Slippery Poster Paper

Bristol Board

Linda says smooth and absorbent paper works the best. I usually use deli paper but I plan to experiment with the above papers.

The artist offers a wealth of valuable information on printing without a press. Take some time to check her siteout.

May 23, 2014

Since I work on a variety of mixed-media art projects at any one time, my rug hooking keeps getting pushed to the end of the list.

However, I finally completed the first checker board border on this rug. I just need to do the second border and I'll be finished with the hooking. That's two long rows and two short rows to do which can take a very long time.

After the rug is hooked, then I have to bind and sew the edges. I also have to trim all the loose ends of wool.

May 09, 2014

Here's my newest embellished t-shirt. I purchased the Paris PostmarkDigital Collage Sheet from the Graphique Etsy Shop. I really love the bold look of this image.

The Shop offers a huge variety of digital collage sheets, including 550 French-Style images. Individual collage sheets only cost $1.00. I have no relation to the Shop - I'm just a satisfied customer. Check them out!

May 06, 2014

When I work on my mixed-media art projects, I like to wear plain white t-shirts since I usually end up with paint and ink all over me. Afterwards, It's easy to just throw the t-shirts into the washing machine.

For this t-shirt, I used a GF Vintage Crown with Pearls Image. I added the DIVA lettering using the CIRCUS font. I purchased Jolee's Boutique Easy Image transfer sheets (for light fabrics) from Michaels. The package cost $10.00 for ten sheets.

April 25, 2014

I heard about these texture plates from my local mixed-media art group. I purchased them on sale in the toy department at Michaels. I only paid two dollars for the package which contains 12 plates (with six different designs).

To use them, I poured fluid acrylic paint onto a palette. I then pressed the texture plate into the paint and onto my art journal page.

I especially liked the pattern produced by the wavy plate. Next time I plan to use a brayer to apply the paint to the plate for a stronger imprint on the page.

I also like the pattern produced by the plate with the narrow vertical lines. The first photo gives you a better idea of this texture. I plan to experiment with this plate and different acrylic paints to achieve a heavier marking.

Here are the individual plates after they were washed. I used a wet paper towel and a bit of Dawn detergent to clean them. You could also keep a pail of water nearby to immediately clean them after use.

You might want to cut the plates into smaller pieces for ease of handling or for smaller art journals.

April 12, 2014

I first thought of the phrase, Create Room for Imagination, when I was working in my art journal. The phrase was a reminder to me to make more time for creative endeavors on a daily basis. I then decided to create an art work featuring those words.

I began the piece with an 8" x 10" canvas board covered with old dictionary pages. I next added acrylic paint, embellishments, one of my characters and words. I had a lot of fun creating this art piece.

March 14, 2014

One of our members, Julie Armstrong, demonstrated the use of Alcohol Ink on Yupo paper. I created the above three pieces at home today. First, I added different colors of alcohol ink and then sprayed it with pure (70% to 90%) alcohol. When the mixture dried, I added some more alcohol ink - but this time I used an eye dropper to apply the pure alcohol.

Spraying the alcohol on the ink drops produces a finer texture. The eye dropper technique produces the above interesting shapes.

I then repeated the same process but used glossy cardstock instead. As you can see, the above results created more subdued colors. I prefer working with the Yupo paper.

After you've created your Yupo Art, you can use it to make greeting cards, journal covers, book marks, gift tags - or mat and frame the art.

February 08, 2014

I wanted to do an experiment with matte medium and Charvin Paris Water-Soluble Pastel Painting Sticks. First, I printed a Black & White copy of an image of roses on bond paper. (The original colored photo is shown above. I believe the image is from The Graphics Fairy).

I painted matte medium on the B&W copy and let it dry. Then I colored the roses with the pastel sticks. I like the shabby looking results of the roses as shown below.

I also tried this experiment with glossy photo paper but I did not like the end result. I may have brushed on too much matte medium with the latter. I will have to experiment some more.

November 15, 2013

Here is an experiment that I worked on in my Art Journal today. First, I pasted an image of a woman from an old magazine onto my Journal page. I added some French text to her dress and a corner of the page as well as a small clock.

Then I covered the entire page with white acrylic paint. I next used watercolor crayons, a mark-all pencil and more acrylic paint to re-create the female image. Last, I stenciled in some polka dots.

I may go back to this page and rework the image. I'm submitting this post for the 15th day of Art Every Day Month.